President christens plane Cyprus
Cyprus actively supports the aviation sector, aiming to increase the nation’s air connectivity, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Tuesday during the naming ceremony of a SKY express plane called ‘Cyprus’.
Speaking at a ceremony at Glafkos Clerides airport in Larnaca, Christodoulides said SKY express is a valuable partner for Cyprus.
Stressing the importance of naming one of the aircraft Cyprus, the president said “we are proud” to have this state-of-the-art aircraft crossing international skies bearing the name of our homeland.
He also underscored the significance of the company’s increased presence in the country for the enhancement of air connectivity.
“Ensuring good air connectivity for our country is a priority for the respective Cypriot governments,” he said.
“SKY Express’ decision to expand its operations in our country significantly contributes to our overall efforts and is a vote of confidence in our nation. I am confident that our cooperation will strengthen over time, with multiple benefits for all, further improving our connectivity,” Christodoulides added.
This year, a total of 157 routes were operated to the island from 56 airlines, connecting Cyprus with 39 countries.
“Our goal for the next year is to further enhance air connectivity,” the president said.
The new ‘Cyprus’ aircraft is an Airbus A321neo aircraft also underscores a commitment to environmental awareness, with these aircraft playing a role in a 23 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions per kilometre.
Furthermore, these aircraft reduce noise footprint by 75 per cent per passenger, making them one of the most environmentally friendly and efficient aircraft today.
According to Eurocontrol data, SKY Express was recognised as the European company with the highest increase in flight activity for 2022 compared to 2019.
Established in July 2005, SKY express currently operates 49 routes, including flights to Larnaca from Athens and Thessalonki.
Christodoulides has flown with SKY express to European capitals on several occasions.